This Cajun Chicken Lasagna recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. Packed with bold flavors and a touch of heat, this lasagna will satisfy your cravings for both Cajun and comfort food. Layers of tender chicken, spicy andouille sausage, bell peppers, onions, and a creamy Cajun sauce are sandwiched between lasagna noodles and gooey melted cheese. It's a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with a little kick. Get ready to dig into a hearty and indulgent meal that brings together the best of Cajun and Italian cuisines.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
- 8 ounces andouille sausage, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Stir until well combined and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the Cajun sauce on the bottom.
- Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the chicken cubes, half of the andouille sausage, and half of the vegetable mixture on top of the noodles.
- Pour half of the remaining Cajun sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with 3 lasagna noodles, the remaining chicken, sausage, vegetables, Cajun sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the final 3 lasagna noodles and the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy the spicy and flavorful Cajun Chicken Lasagna!
Interesting Facts
Cajun cuisine originated in Louisiana and is known for its bold and spicy flavors.
Andouille sausage is a smoked sausage commonly used in Cajun dishes. It adds a smoky and savory taste to the lasagna.
The word 'lasagna' originated from the Greek word 'lasanon', which means 'chamber pot'. It refers to the dish in which lasagna was traditionally cooked.
Lasagna is believed to have been introduced to Italy by the ancient Greeks and Romans.
Chicken is a versatile and lean protein choice that pairs well with the spiciness of Cajun flavors.